Annual observance

National Hangover Day

January 1 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-17

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Overview

National Hangover Day is observed annually on January 1st, serving as a collective day of recovery from New Year's Eve festivities. It's a day for rest, rehydration, and reflecting on the previous night's celebrations, often accompanied by a quiet start to the new year.

Observed each year on January 1, National Hangover Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Hangover Day, observed on January 1, matters as it acknowledges the universal experience of recovery following New Year's Eve celebrations, promoting a shared understanding of the need for rest and reflection at the start of a new year.

Origin and story

It is unofficially celebrated every January 1, coinciding with the first day of the new year, directly after New Year's Eve celebrations.

The word 'hangover' is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, referring to the lingering effects of a previous event, much like leftover provisions.

Quick facts

  • DateJanuary 1
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

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Ways to celebrate

  • Sleep in and move slowly, giving your body time to recover.
  • Avoid strenuous plans and keep expectations low.
  • Drink plenty of water or electrolyte beverages throughout the day.
  • Eat light, comforting foods like fruit, soup, or toast.
  • Take a short walk or get fresh air if you're up to it.
  • Watch a movie or listen to calming music at home.
  • Reflect on moderation and balance without judgment.
  • Set a gentle intention for healthier habits in the year ahead.
  • Focus on self-care rather than regret.

Fun facts

  • It is unofficially celebrated every January 1st, coinciding with the first day of the new year, directly after New Year's Eve celebrations.
  • The word 'hangover' is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, referring to the lingering effects of a previous event, much like leftover provisions.
  • Common hangover remedies across cultures include greasy breakfasts, strong coffee, hydrating drinks, and simply more sleep.
  • Hangover symptoms are caused by a mix of dehydration, sleep disruption, inflammation, and the body processing alcohol.
  • Some historical accounts suggest that even ancient civilizations had their own remedies for the morning-after effects of festive drinking.
  • While not officially recognized by any government, its observance is a widely acknowledged global phenomenon.

Sources and attribution

Hangover Basics & Recovery (Cleveland Clinic)

What Causes a Hangover? (Mayo Clinic)

External links may lead to third-party websites.


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FAQ

When is National Hangover Day?
It is observed on January 1 each year.
What is National Hangover Day?
National Hangover Day is observed annually on January 1, serving as a collective day of recovery from New Year's Eve festivities. It's a day for rest, rehydration, and reflecting on the previous night's celebrations, often accompanied by a quiet start to the new year.
How do people celebrate National Hangover Day?
Rest, hydrate, and keep the day low-key to recover.

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